The next Benefits Open Enrollment period is October 5–30, 2026.
Changes go into effect on January 1, 2027.
What is Benefits Open Enrollment?
Benefits Open Enrollment is an annual opportunity for benefits-eligible employees to enroll in or make changes to most benefit plans for the upcoming calendar year.
Why is Benefits Open Enrollment important?
This is the only time you are eligible to make changes unless you have a qualifying life event, such as a family or employment change. Some benefits require re-enrollment if you wish to continue them into 2027.
Will there be changes to insurance plans and programs in 2027?
Yes, changes are expected for some plans and programs in 2027. Watch this page for updates so that you can make informed decisions during Benefits Open Enrollment.
Learn more
Questions?
If you have questions or need assistance, please contact the HR office in your unit.
Language Assistance
For assistance in the following languages, contact Cultural Linguistic Services:
Events
UW–Madison hosts a number of events to help you understand your options and enroll in benefits.
Benefits 2027: What You Need to Know
This 60-minute information session will be offered both in-person and virtually. In-person sessions will be held at various dates, times, and campus locations, including sessions at the Employee Benefits and Resource Fair. A recording of this session will also be made available.
A detailed schedule of these events will be released in late summer 2026.
Multilingual In-Person Sessions
Daytime and late-night sessions of “Benefits 2027: What You Need to Know” will be offered in English, Spanish, Hmong, Tibetan, Chinese, and Nepali.
A detailed schedule of these events will be released in late summer 2026.
Employee Benefits and Resource Fair
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9 p.m. to 3 p.m.Location: Union South, Varsity HallThis event features resources and presentations that can help with benefits enrollment for 2027. Representatives from Benefits Services will be on hand to answer questions, and “Benefits 2027: What You Need to Know” will be presented at multiple times. If you have decided your 2027 benefits, get help enrolling or making changes through Workday at the on-site Open Benefits Lab.
Accommodation Requests
If you need an accommodation to attend these events, please contact benefits@ohr.wisc.edu. All accommodation requests should be made no less than two weeks before the event. We will attempt to fulfill requests made after this date, but cannot guarantee they will be met.